Mayor Elisha McCallion
DERRY City and Strabane District Council is offering the opportunity to pay tribute to some of the remarkable work being carried out by the many local women who have made a difference to every level of local society.
The Women of the Year Awards are held annually by the Council’s Women’s Development section.
It is to acknowledge the invaluable contribution made by women of all ages in the city and district who work in community, arts, business, and caring for others on a daily basis, sacrificing their own time for the benefit of others.
Anyone whose work has made a significant impact over the past 12 months can be nominated, and this year there are 13 different categories covering a range of fields, as well as an overall Woman of the Year 2016 award.
Announcing details of the 2016 awards, Mayor Cllr Elisha McCallion said they aim to shine a light on the hard work of so many women in our city whose dedication often goes unrecognised.
“So much is being achieved by local women who contribute significantly to the local economy through business and enterprise, who work tirelessly to improve the areas where they live, and who give their time generously to enhancing the well being of others.
“Many of these women juggle jobs and families to achieve their goals and this is the perfect opportunity to recognise the difference they make to all our lives.
“I would encourage everyone to take the opportunity to nominate someone they feel deserves a special acknowledgement, and let them know they are valued for their work.”
Encouraging the public to nominate women they think are deserving of the awards, Joanna Boyd, Women’s Officer with Derry City and Strabane District Council, said it is a great way to acknowledge the great work being done on the ground and to showcase local achievements.
This year’s awards ceremony is sponsored by Local Women Magazine and will be held at the City Hotel on 04 March 2016.
Nominations are currently being sought under the following categories:
Contribution to Community Development; Contribution to Community Relations; Contribution to Health; Contribution to Enterprise; Contribution to Community Safety; Contribution to Arts; Contribution to Formal/Informal Education; Contribution to the Older People; Contribution to Youth; Contribution to Childcare; Contribution to Caring; Young Women’s Award (must be aged 18 to 25 years old); Women living with a Disability .An individual may only enter one category as regards to categories 1 to 13 inclusive but may also be involved in a nomination for Overall Woman of the Year 2016 Winner.
The closing date for entries is 12 noon on Friday 22 January 2016. Nomination forms are available online or from Council offices in Derry and Strabane – www.derrystrabane.com/women
